Buford Adamson Jr.

February 25, 1944 – March 1, 2026

Buford Adamson, Jr., age 82, of La Grange, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on March 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on February 25, 1944, Buford was a proud graduate of Eastern High School, Class of 1962, where he excelled on the football field. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. During his four years of service, he worked as an aircraft mechanic and was stationed in West Germany during the height of the Cold War. Buford carried his pride in military service with him throughout his life.

Following his honorable discharge, Buford began a distinguished 35-year career with AT&T / BellSouth Communications as an engineer. Known for his skill, work ethic, and problem-solving ability, he retired at the age of 58 and began what would become nearly 25 years of active and fulfilling retirement.

Retirement allowed Buford to devote himself to one of his greatest passions: classic cars. He meticulously collected, rebuilt, and maintained numerous treasured vehicles. His craftsmanship and attention to detail earned him numerous awards and recognition at car shows throughout the region. Buford was a proud member of the Antique Iron Club of Oldham County and enjoyed the friendships and camaraderie that came with it.

A devoted Catholic throughout his life, Buford lived his faith quietly and consistently. He gave generously of his time and talents to his community. Over the years, he was involved with the Oldham County Youth Football League, the Be Like Griff Foundation, and served as a Kentucky High School Athletic Association basketball referee in the 1980s. Buford also proudly served on the Trinity High School Football “Chain Gang” during the heralded 1988, 1989, and 1990 undefeated state championship seasons and for another ten seasons thereafter.

In La Grange, Buford was widely known as one of the handiest men around – someone who could fix or build nearly anything. More importantly, he was known for freely offering his help to anyone in need. Whether repairing something for a neighbor, mentoring a young athlete, or lending a steady hand to a friend, Buford embodied quiet generosity and service. Above all, Buford was devoted to his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Buford Adamson, Sr. and Viola Adamson.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Evelyn Marie (nee Gnagie) Adamson; his children, Tamera Gail Adamson, Maria Lynn Adamson, Jeffrey Wayne Adamson, and Christopher Michael Adamson; his cherished grandson, Tyler Matthew Adamson; his brothers and sisters, Myra Crews, Donna Johnson, and Donnie Adamson; and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will miss his steady presence, humor, and strength.

Buford was also a devoted dog lover and is preceded in death by his beloved golden retriever Peaches Adamson and survived by his second beloved golden retriever, Brandy Adamson. Both of these precious members of the family brought him great companionship and joy during his retirement years.

A memorial service will be held at Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home in La Grange from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Aloysius Catholic Church at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Golden Retriever Rescue & Adoption of Needy Dogs (GRRAND), P.O. Box 6132, Louisville, KY 40206, https://grrand.org/donate/, or to a charity of one’s choice in Buford’s memory.

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’”

— Matthew 25:23